Subjects:

• GS-1: Society: Women’s Advancement, Social Challenges
• GS-2: Governance & Welfare: Gender Initiatives, Economic Inclusion
• GS-3: Economy & Technology: Startups, Digital Empowerment

Key Points

Sanitation & Water Access Programs

• Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (SBM) enhanced cleanliness, dignity, and well-being for 116 million households.
• Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) boosted tap water coverage from 17% to 74.7%, easing rural women’s workload.

Women in Entrepreneurship & Finance

• Over 70,000 startups feature at least one woman founder, aided by Startup India.
• Stand-Up India disbursed ₹63,509 crore in loans to 3.6 lakh female entrepreneurs.
• Mudra Yojana allocated ₹32.3 lakh crore, with 68% benefiting women.

Digital Reach & Economic Progress

• BharatNet and PM-Wi-Fi schemes brought internet to 99,000 villages, aiding women in banking, online trade, and learning.
• PM Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) opened 300 million bank accounts for women, fostering financial autonomy.

Leadership & STEM Contributions

• Women hold 46% of elected positions in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), shaping rural governance.
• In STEM, 43% of graduates in India are women, driving innovation and business growth.

Insights & Future Steps

• Robust policies in sanitation, finance, and digital access are uplifting women economically.
• Next steps include bolstering women’s leadership, advancing STEM education, and deepening financial inclusion.
• Long-term empowerment hinges on sustained investment in digital and economic frameworks.

Mains Practice Question

“Assess the impact of government initiatives on women’s empowerment in India. Recommend ways to boost their involvement in governance and economic spheres.”